Legislation that has a major impact on how North Carolinians get health care has passed a hurdle in the state Senate.

The bill would allow the federal government to run the health care exchange that is required under Obama Care. Senator Floyd McKissick of Durham says North Carolina should choose a state-run option instead.

"We need local control. We need autonomy. We need to be able to provide that range of services for our residences and not depend upon the federal government to do it."

The Republican-backed bill passed a committee vote on Thursday and is headed to the full Senate for debate.